Fat Cell Removal the Non-invasive Way: What to Expect

Sometimes your diet and exercise regimen just isn’t enough to get over that final hurdle. No matter what you do, there is a pocket or two of fat that won’t go away, no matter how hard you try. Surgery is an option, of course, but that may seem extreme for a small area of fat. A non-invasive method for fat cell removal may be what you need to finally get your desired results.

What is Non-invasive Fat Cell Removal?

There are several methods your dermatologist can use for non-invasive fat cell removal. They all involve a handheld device of some kind or using injections to help kill fat cells. The devices can send heat, cold, or even sound waves that will break up your fat cells without damaging your skin. Injections will puncture the skin, but they are small and not nearly as invasive as surgical incisions. The injections contain acids that will dissolve fat.

How Long Do Results Last?

Results can be permanent. The body only has a certain number of fat cells. If you gain weight, these fat cells expand. If you dissolve or destroy them, they are gone for good. However, if you gain weight again, then what fat cells you have left will expand again. Since you have destroyed many of these fat cells, then even if you gain weight again you will still have less fat where you removed cells previously.

How Fast Will You See Results?

When you will start seeing the results generally depends on the treatment, but non-invasive fat cell removal involves gradual progress until you get to where you want to be. With handheld devices, you will start to notice that progress around 3 weeks, and by 6 months you should have the full effect. With injections, 3 to 6 months after your final treatment is when you will start to see the full effects of the procedure.

What is the Recovery Time?

One of the main advantages of using non-invasive methods to remove fat is that there is very little if any, downtime. Your dermatologist may recommend some rest in some cases, but most patients go back to their normal life right away. Some people will even get their treatments on their lunch break and get back to work in the afternoon. You may have some discomfort and swelling, but nothing that will prevent you from living your life.

How Long Does a Treatment Take?

Again, this depends on the treatment, but your dermatologist will give you an idea of how long it will take. That way, you can properly schedule treatments into your day. They will vary in range from 30-90 minutes. Some methods also require more treatments than others.

Are There Any Side Effects?

You can expect there to be some minor side effects. These can include swelling and bruising, or perhaps just some discomfort. If you have an injection, your skin may swell and bruise. You might also have some redness in the area or even feel numb or tingly at the site at first. These are all temporary and will dissipate.

Are You a Good Candidate?

Non-invasive fat cell removal is not a weight-loss solution. The ideal candidate has reached their goals but has a pocket or two of fat that simply won’t go away. It is always best to see a certified dermatologist in San Antonio to discuss your options and see whether you are a good candidate. You will be able to talk about your goals for fat removal, and which method would be right for you.